Stretching shoes at home. How to stretch shoes at home: methods and tips

At the time of buying new shoes We pay attention not only to material, decor or design, but also to comfort. And how many times has the feeling of comfort in the store deceived us! If it turns out that a new pair is too tight or stiff, you shouldn’t put it in the closet or put it up for sale: leather, sports, or winter shoes can be stretched.

Breaking in new shoes

Everything becomes clear after 30 minutes of wearing new sandals, boots or moccasins. If a callus appears on the heel, your feet are swollen, or your toes rest on the toe, the last is small and puts pressure on your foot, then the shoes are too small for you. The solution is to try to wear the new thing without pain or harm to health.

It is important to understand how much the shoe needs to be stretched. It is easier to spread the model wide: if the block is tight, this can be fixed in a couple of days. If you get the wrong size, it's more difficult to increase it. Use the methods described in the article: the result will not take long to arrive.

In what cases can you stretch your shoes?

It all depends on the material from which the shoes are made. From genuine leather and the suede is quite soft, adapting to the foot during a week of wear. If the shoe material is eco-leather or textiles, you will have to make an effort.

It is possible to make any shoe larger, but it is important to understand how long it takes to avoid making a mistake.

Precautionary measures

No matter how urgent the desire to put on new shoes, sneakers or ballet flats, take your time, proceed carefully. Before you start breaking in new shoes, we recommend that you review the following precautions:

• Don't try to endure the pain. Discomfort when walking affects the foot, spine and the body as a whole.
• Check the material for paint and decoration resistance.
• Apply chemical compounds with gloves, protect your hands from boiling water or alcohol.
• Study the material: Polished leather after an unsuccessful attempt to increase the size, it may crack or lose shine, and cracks and stains may appear on the leatherette.
• Do not use greasy cream, Vaseline, or vegetable oils when stretching suede or velor shoes.

At home

You can increase your shoe size at home. Be careful, because not all stretching methods are safe for shoes. If you overdo it, the sole may come off, the seams may come apart, and the last may become deformed. After that appearance the shoes will be completely ruined. Natural suede or velor - materials are more delicate than smooth skin. You need to stretch velor shoes very carefully and accurately, using the methods that we will discuss in the article.

Daily wear

Suitable only if the discomfort when wearing sandals, loafers or ankle boots is minimized: you cover a fresh callus with a band-aid and you don’t feel anything. Short-term wear without strong impact will not give a quick effect, so you can break in the shoes at home by wearing a thick woolen sock. And there will be no calluses, and the material will adapt to the shape of the foot faster.

Vinegar

Wet the inside of the shoe. The vinegar concentration should be no more than 9%. The solution will soften the material if shoes squeeze your toes. Repeat 3-4 times.

Don't worry about the strong unpleasant odor: it dissipates quickly.

Rinse the shoes as soon as they reach the desired size.

Glycerin or shoe polish

If the discomfort when wearing is insignificant, and it is important to soften rather than stretch the shoes, then cream or glycerin will help. It will make the narrow toe of the shoes more elastic. Shoe polish will also do the job well. Once it is absorbed, apply the product again. And so on several times. Therefore, try to allocate a day off for these purposes or take a jar of the product to work.

Boiling water

Grandmother's method. Simple but effective. You need to pour or dip your shoes in hot water for a few seconds, and then wear them with a thick sock for about half an hour. After breaking in, the shoes should be completely dry. This is a rather aggressive method, so we advise you not to risk new expensive sandals. A gentler way is not to pour boiling water over your shoes, but to hold them over steam.

Hairdryer

We continue the topic of the effects of heat, because leather items become much more elastic when heat treated. A stream of hot air must be directed to particularly tight and hard places and warmed up for about 10 minutes. Then our constant “helpers” come into play - thick socks. Their application is the secret of success. Walk like this for 15 minutes and evaluate the results.

Water

Even if a stone sharpens, it will definitely stretch your shoes. There are several ways here. You can wrap your shoes in cotton cloth soaked in warm water. After about half an hour, remove the material and lubricate the skin with any oil. Check the effect after a day. Another tip: soak wool socks in very hot water, put them on, and put them on. Walk around the apartment for 30 minutes.

Corn

An interesting way that will help those with wide feet. Grain or any small cereal is suitable for it: semolina, millet. You need to pour the wet cereal into your shoes and leave it overnight. During this time, the mass will absorb water, swell and slightly expand the shoes.

Vodka or alcohol

To gradually break in your shoes, wipe them with alcohol or vodka from the inside, put on a thick sock and walk in them for 10-15 minutes several times a day. This method will allow you to regulate the process and not overdo it with stretching. This method is perhaps the most popular among women.

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Beer

A good way to soften the leather and not damage the color of the material is to treat the shoes with beer. Alcohol in the composition will make shoes a size larger.

Ice

An effective but extreme way to stretch winter shoes. In this case, the boots will proportionally increase both in length and width, even more than by one size. Algorithm of actions:

1. Pour water into thick plastic bags, tie them tightly and place them in boots or shoes.
2. Spread the bags inside over the entire block: the result will depend on this.
3. Place your shoes in the freezer or on the balcony.
4. Leave for a day: the liquid will expand when it freezes, and the boots will become larger.
5. After a day, take out the boots and remove the bags from them. There is no need to wait for the water to melt.
6. Repeat the procedure if necessary.

Wet socks

A thick terry or wool sock will help stretch the shoes in almost every recipe above. Even just a sock moistened with warm water will create the desired effect under the influence of weight. You can easily combine this method with household chores. If the shoes are tight in a specific area, then you need to wet the sock only in that place.

Wet newspapers

Wet the newspapers, crumple them and stuff them tightly into the shoes. Wait until it dries completely without applying heat (about a day or a little more). This way, you won’t be able to damage your shoes and at the same time make them a little roomier.

Vaseline and castor oil

They will help to wear shoes, make them softer, more elastic, and protect them from creases and cracks. For a week, before putting on your shoes, lubricate them on the outside, and if they involve wearing bare feet, then on the inside as well. Using oil or Vaseline, the shoes will adapt to the foot as much as possible and take its shape.

Purchased stretching products

In shoe stores you can find sprays and foam for stretching shoes. These are convenient mobile assistants that can be used in the office or on the go. Most bottles are small in size and can easily fit in your bag. Apply the product from the outside and inside to pressure points - immediately before wearing.

These products are delicate, so breaking in shoes the first time will not work in 9 cases out of 10.

Arm yourself not only with a spray can, but also with patience. The products do not spoil the shape of the pad, do not wash off the paint and do not corrode the material.

How to use stretchers

Another not too common one, but effective remedy- mechanical spacers. They are made of wood in the shape of a foot and allow you to separately pull the skin of any model in the area of ​​the little toe or in the area of ​​the big toe joint. All parameters are adjustable, allowing you to adjust the mechanism to any pair, increase its fullness and size. By the way, it is recommended to use spacers with stretching sprays.

What do they do in the workshops?

In specialized workshops, shoes are stretched on special machines. The shoes are treated with a spray and spacers are inserted into them. Adjust the desired size and width on the machine and leave for two to three days. After this procedure, shoes may become two sizes larger in both length and width.

Which methods to choose for different materials

Any shoes should be treated with care and respect, and for different types intended different ways stretch marks. Let's try to correlate all the above methods with different materials.

Genuine Leather

It's easy to wear even with a wet sock, so don't overdo it. A stretching spray will also help, and the oil will make the skin not only supple, but also shiny, soft and well-groomed.

Suede

It wears out quite well and is soft, so stretching it during everyday use will not be difficult. Try heating it with a hairdryer or holding it over steam. Do not use petroleum jelly or oil under any circumstances: permanent stains will remain!

Nubuck

Nubuck shoes are quite delicate. In this case, use wet grain or cereal.

Faux leather

Dermantine shoes are capricious and do not respond well to changes. Vaseline and vegetable oils are suitable for this; alcohol and vinegar can help.

Rubber

Rubber boots and galoshes can also be stretched! Boiling water will come to the rescue. First, soak your shoes in it for a few minutes, then put them on with a tight sock and fix the result in cold water.

Textiles and PVC

Wet newspapers will help stretch fabric sneakers or sneakers. Before filling rag shoes with them, hold them over steam - this will make them softer.

But dancing sandals or patent leather shoes can crack from any careless impact. Therefore, the best thing you can do with them is to smear them with a thick cream and spray them with a stretching spray, hoping for results. We warn you that it may not exist.

How to stretch children's shoes

Children grow at lightning speed, and new boots ordered online may already be too small by the time they are received. We urge you not to stretch children's shoes, because the wrong size can disrupt the formation of the legs, leading to clubfoot and flat feet. But it can be a shame when a child outgrows his shoes at the end of the season. Buy another one winter boots unprofitable: next year they will be small. The same can be said about shoes for other seasons.

You can try to “adjust” winter and demi-season models by at least half a size.

This is where thick socks come to the rescue again. They can be wetted with warm water and walked as long as the child can tolerate. Ask him not just to walk around in tight shoes, but also to squat in them, lifting his heels off the floor.

If the sandals fit just right, try a rich cream. Moreover, you need to smear not only shoes, but also the child’s feet so that they gradually knead the last.

Climbing shoes

A sore subject for any climber is the distribution of new climbing shoes. As a rule, shoes are bought 2-3 sizes smaller and take on the shape of the foot during use, through discomfort and pain. In this case, you are unlikely to get pleasure from tourism, so it is better to distribute them in advance.
Specialized shoes require a special approach.

After the second or third climb, it will become clear where the rocks are pinching or rubbing. It is important to protect these areas with a band-aid and place a piece of cotton wool under it. If you use your shoes every day, they will soon stretch to fit the shape of your feet.

How to straighten individual elements

It often happens that the shoe fits true to size, but some of its elements or the foot itself are non-standard. There are different situations, and our advice will help you cope with each.

Narrow or hard back

New shoes and polished heels are inseparable! Moreover, this problem occurs not only in shoes or ballet flats, but also in sneakers and high shoes.

There may be several exits. The most effective of them is a hammer. If the back of the shoe is unbearably hard and neither alcohol nor water will take it, carefully beat it with a hammer through thick fabric. Don't overdo it! Immediately before wearing, rub the edges of the shoe with soap, wax or paraffin, and spread the heel with a rich cream. If necessary, use silicone pads or adhesive tape in several layers.

Narrow toe

Shoes that pinch your toes make you want to throw them away immediately. Take your time! Applying water, alcohol, or vinegar to the area where shoes are compressed works quite well. If the little finger presses or thumb, overlays on wooden spacers can help: they make the device more anatomical and are most often sold complete with it. Don't forget to use a stretching spray.

Boot tops

It is also possible to stretch your boots in the calf area if they are barely fastened and press on. Try the method of freezing water in bags, applying petroleum jelly or oil and applying heat. If the leather is artificial or very delicate, and the boots have decor in the form of plaques and other metal elements, it is better to take the shoes to a master: he will make cuts on the top and insert elastic bands. This technique will widen the bootleg and guarantee a comfortable fit for any model of boot.

How to Stretch on the Lift

The high instep of the foot deprives you of comfort when wearing shoes and boots. We offer several options to solve the problem:

• Choose boots with laces, so the instep can be adjusted.
• Remove the insoles. When the material adjusts to the height of the leg, they can be inserted back.

If your boots don't have a zipper, take them to a mechanic to have a zipper installed.

Care after stretching

Any shoes after exposure to chemicals, water or mechanical procedures require rehabilitation. Be sure to let it dry completely, use care products, moisturize with creams and protect your skin from moisture. And then your favorite shoes, boots or sneakers will last you longer and will delight you with their appearance.

Discussion 0

Reading time: 8 minutes. Views 73 Published 01/18/2020

Sometimes it happens that during fitting in a store, shoes fit perfectly on the foot. Later, it suddenly turns out that your shoes are too tight, rubbing, and causing discomfort when walking. The question arises, how to stretch shoes at home. There are many for this various techniques. For everything to be successful, you must be careful and strictly follow the instructions. Otherwise, you risk losing your favorite pair of shoes.

You should know that it is impossible to expand your shoes several sizes at once on your own. If you only need a few millimeters to achieve comfort, you can use one of the methods described below. Usually about half a size is enough to feel ease when walking and get rid of those hated calluses.

What should you remember before starting shoe stretching?

When you start stretching your new shoes, you need to be careful. Each material is characterized by different properties and therefore requires an individual approach. Do not think that the method of expanding suede shoes is also suitable for patent leather ones. This can damage the product instantly, after which it can no longer be worn. To achieve the desired result, it is recommended to strictly follow the described algorithm.

Do not use water or hot objects under any circumstances. Do not place the product near hot radiators or stoves, as this may cause immediate deformation. To stretch shoes, you cannot use brute force, which will only lead to disastrous consequences.

To ensure successful shoe stretching, you should follow these simple rules:

• it is often necessary to repeat the procedure twice, since it is difficult to achieve the desired result the first time - you should look at the situation, but try not to overdo it;
• carefully check the quality of the pair of shoes made in advance - make sure what material it is made of, otherwise you risk losing your favorite shoes;
• be careful when stretching patent leather shoes - this surface is most sensitive to rough impact; cracks and other imperfections may appear;
• Make sure that when stretching shoes at home, calluses do not appear on your feet - treat various wounds in a timely manner.

Please read the instructions carefully. If you are not sure about at least one of the points, then you should turn to specialists. You should remember that you can only stretch your shoes wider.

Popular methods for leather shoes

Before increasing your shoe size, you should carefully examine the material used. If it is thin, then a light impact is enough. Otherwise, you will have to resort to more crude methods.

Wool socks

This is a fairly simple method that has been done over the years. It does not harm the shoes and allows the shoes to expand with a gentle impact. The procedure is quite simple - you need to wear woolen socks. Walk like this for several hours. Remove your shoes periodically to avoid damaging your feet. The result will come with time, and the beloved couple will remain intact.

Alcohol

The option described above may not be suitable for those who are short on time. One of the proven ways to distribute leather shoes at home, is the use of alcohol tincture. To do this, you will need to combine water with alcohol in a one to one proportion. Treat the inside surface of the shoe. Leave the solution inside for half an hour, then put on shoes with woolen socks and walk around for a while.

Dry your shoes in the sun naturally. You can use any alcohol-containing liquid as alcohol.

Alcohol dries the skin very much, so after drying the shoes should be treated with Vaseline or another product.

Petrolatum

Before stretching leather shoes made from expensive materials at home, it is recommended that you prepare Vaseline and a special last, which is used by craftsmen for breaking in. To do this, lubricate the inside with Vaseline and place the pads. Leave it for a day. This method makes it possible to preserve the original structure of the shoe. Wash off any remaining Vaseline and enjoy wearing your shoes.

Soak

This method of stretching boots is only suitable for cheaper products. You will need to pour boiling water inside and then pour it out almost immediately. Now slip a pair of wool socks onto your feet. If you don't want to damage your shoes, you can use a wrap made of old fabric. Dry your boots well before wearing.

Freezing

Suitable for thicker and rougher boots that are difficult to do anything with. To prevent shoes from becoming deformed, water is poured into a bag that is placed inside the shoes.

It is best to carry out this process at night. In the morning, take out a pair of shoes and let them warm up at room temperature. After this, you can try to separate the pair, having previously lubricated them with Vaseline.

Stretching shoes made of different materials

If the shoes are not made of genuine leather, the methods described above on how to stretch shoes at home will not work. These methods will be aggressive and will ruin the design of the product, so you will have to use a shoe stretching agent.

Special product

Specialized stores sell a product that can be used to stretch shoes. Before purchasing, be sure to check what material it is intended for, since the cost also differs.

Newspaper

One of the most difficult shoe stretchers is ordinary newspaper, which is found in every home. Crumple up a few sheets, place them inside the shoes and leave them overnight. This will slightly expand the internal space of the product.

Stretching shoes made of leather substitute

These shoes are practically unstretchable. It's better to return the pair to the store or give it to someone with the same size. If there is no other option, then it is recommended to try one of the methods described below.

Socks

You can use regular thick woolen socks as a shoe stretcher. Put them on your leg and walk like this for several hours for two days. To increase elasticity, coat the inside of the pair with Vaseline. Of course, this method will not allow you to expand the product by several sizes. At the same time, you will feel some ease while dressing. The main thing is to be careful during these manipulations.

Paraffin

Soften the material using paraffin if you experience discomfort while walking. Before starting the procedure, dry the product thoroughly using a hairdryer or other available methods. Melt a regular candle and apply paraffin to the inner surface. Wear a sock and a pair of shoes. Walk like this for several days in a row for an hour.

This method will allow you to gently expand the shoes without consequences. Carefully remove the paraffin and enjoy the comfort and ease of walking.

Methods for stretching rubber shoes

This method is used only for PVC shoes. This model is very easy to stretch, so read the instructions below.

Cold and hot water, socks

Place the steam in a bowl of hot water for a few minutes. After this, put on terry socks and shoes over your feet. Stand in a bowl of cold water. The material should take the shape of your foot and fit perfectly on the surface. After this, it is not recommended to wear shoes for several days. Let her give you an example of the desired shape.

Stretching patent leather shoes

It's difficult to do anything here. Patent leather shoes are the most sensitive to any rough mechanical impact. No shoe stretcher will help increase them even by a few millimeters. The only method is to soften the inner surface.

Socks with alcohol

Prepare an alcohol solution and try wearing your shoes for several days in warm socks. Do not apply heat to the product. You risk damaging the varnish surface. The shoes will become dull and susceptible to future damage.

Pad with cream

As a shoe stretcher, you can use natural Vaseline or rich cream in combination with a special last, which are sold in shoe stores. Carefully process the inner surface so as not to damage the pair.

Place a special block inside. It must sit for at least a day for you to notice the result. Avoid direct sunlight or heat from batteries.

Each of the methods has been tested in practice, so there is no need to doubt their authenticity. Just don't think that you can significantly increase your shoe sizes. This is quite difficult and impossible.

You should not immediately resort to radical methods of mechanical action. Try something less rough first - you may be able to break in your shoes.

Perform any manipulations with caution so as not to damage the shoes. As a last resort, it is better to return the shoes to the store than to throw them away.

Shoe stretchers: how to choose and use correctly?

Many people know what it’s like to buy shoes that fit perfectly on your feet in the store when you tried them on, but when you first went out, they caused a lot of inconvenience and pain. To the question “What to do?” There is always one answer - spread it.

I wonder what happens if your feet are chafed, with dropsies and wounds? We suggest you consider some of the tricks that we have collected for you in one article.

What to do if your shoes are too tight?

New shoes often chafe and can pinch your feet in a variety of places. And it’s not surprising, because everyone has different instep, width and other parameters of the foot, and shoes are made in production according to standard measurements.

There are three ways to deal with the problem:

• Contact specialists- hand over your shoes for stretching. But you also need to take into account the professionalism of the chosen master. It turns out that not everyone can handle patent or suede leather, and besides, special equipment is needed to stretch such a delicate material. Before handing over your new item, ask the technician where and how he plans to solve your problem.

• Go to the store for special means, which helps soften shoes in areas of rubbing and stretch them a little. The inconvenience of this method is that you need to find a suitable composition for the material of your shoes, and no one can guarantee that it will work exactly as you need. It may be a waste of money and time.

• Contact people for advice. For a long time, people have figured out how, with the help of objects and things that are in every home, they can stretch their shoes and not suffer from wounds and dropsy.

Is it possible to stretch shoes at home?

You can stretch your shoes, boots or sandals at home in unusual ways. But best advice- do not wear shoes for the first time on a long working day or take a spare pair with you. Walking for 12 hours in new shoes without chafing is very difficult and not everyone can do it.

The easiest way to deal with natural leather. It stretches easily when exposed to moisture and contracts when exposed to heat. It is for this reason that you should not leave boots or shoes near a radiator or heater, unless you are interested in the opposite effect.

Suede and faux leather are not so easy to adjust, so when experimenting with such shoes you need to be as careful as possible so as not to spoil your new thing.

Oddly enough, fabric shoes can also be stretched, but with drastic measures you can easily damage the texture of the fabric, which will lead to torn areas over time.

Home Remedies for Shoe Stretching

Can be useful for stretching shoes

• just water;
• freezer;
• socks (wet);
• socks (dry thick);
• paper;
• alcohol;
• vodka;
• and, of course, your readiness for any action.

How to stretch shoes width and length by size?

It is quite possible to stretch your shoes wider. Length is a controversial issue; you can make them a little looser, but you won’t be able to stretch the shoes to size even with drastic methods.

One of the most popular ways to stretch your shoes is to walk around the house in shoes and thick (usually wool) socks. There will be no immediate results, but a week of walking around the apartment may be enough. In fact, the method is so-so, but you don’t need to “bother” - put on your socks and go ahead and drive around the expanses of your home.

How to stretch leather shoes to size?

Leather shoes stretch when wet, but it is very important not to dry them out afterwards, because everything will return to normal.

1. Prepare enough material (fabric, paper).
2. Wet the selected material.
3. Pack your shoes.
4. Let sit until the material is damp but not wet.
5. Then try on the shoes with socks.
6. If you don’t feel tight anywhere, you can walk around the house a little more (socks will absorb the remaining moisture).
7. If the shoes are tight, repeat the procedure.
8. Let it dry and test the shoes again.

How to stretch faux leather shoes?

• You can stretch your shoes with alcohol. Cologne, moonshine, vodka or alcohol will do. Apply the liquid to areas causing discomfort, put on socks (preferably cotton) and walk around in your shoes at home until they dry.
• Put on wet socks and tight shoes and walk around the house until they are dry.
• Just use a hairdryer, but you need to do this carefully, as artificial leather can crack if overheated. Heat your shoes with a hairdryer to keep them warm, put on your socks and walk around the house. Can be repeated several times.

How to stretch patent leather shoes?

Patent leather shoes are the most difficult option in terms of stretching, so try to provide for all the nuances when purchasing. You can stretch patent leather shoes only in width and provided that they are made of natural soft leather.

It is better to use the services of specialists, since there is no guarantee that stretching at home will be successful, but it is worth a try.

1. Wet socks and walking around the house.
2. A friend with a leg a little bigger than yours . It’s not very pleasant to give away a new thing for a couple of days, but if it’s too tight, you still won’t be able to wear it. Therefore, choose a friend and ask her for a favor - to wear your brand new shoes at home for a couple of days; it is unlikely that anyone will refuse such an offer.
3. This option is only for high quality shoes! Shoes must be placed in a tight bag, sealed tightly and put in hot water . Hold for about 10 - 15 minutes, remove from the water, untie the bag and put it on your sock. Walk until the shoes cool down.
4. Stretch with steam - hold it over the steam with the sole up until it warms up. Then put it on and walk until it cools completely.
5. Alcohol or vodka wipe the entire inner surface of the shoe and walk for 20-30 minutes. You need to wipe it very carefully so that the liquid does not get on the varnish coating.

How to stretch suede shoes?

Suede is a very delicate material, so you need to handle it very carefully. All stretching methods remain the same, but with a shorter period of exposure.

1. Moisture. Wet cotton socks and walking around the house - no more than 1 hour. It is better to repeat the procedure again if necessary.
2. Steam. Hold your shoes over the kettle spout for no more than 5-10 minutes. Then you need to put on a sock, shoes and do household chores.
3. The most radical way is the freezer. Pour water into the bag, lower the bag of water into the shoe and put it in the freezer until the water freezes completely. If you are not sure about the quality of your shoes, it is better not to use this method.

Is it possible to stretch rubber shoes?

Real rubber is a very durable material and it is impossible to stretch it, but shoes are not made from it at all, despite the name. So-called rubber boots are made mainly from polyvinyl chloride. It is this material that can be stretched a little.

The first thing to do is check if it is really polyvinyl chloride. Heat the needle and touch the boot (choose the top edge, where minor damage will not be noticeable). If the material begins to melt, then you will definitely be able to stretch the boots.

As you already understand, this material can change its shape from heating - hot water or steam.

1. Pour hot water into the shoes and leave for 20-25 minutes. Then put on thick socks and walk around the house until it cools down completely.
2. Steam is more often used to stretch the shins of boots. From scrap materials you need to build shin struts, and together with them, hold the boots over the steam. After that, hot stretched boots need to be put on your feet (preferably over jeans or thick tights) and sit in them until they cool completely.

Sprays and impregnations for stretching shoes

There are on store shelves a wide range of not only aerosols, but also creams, with which you can stretch shoes made of any material.

When selling branded shoes, sellers usually offer to buy stretching agents of the same brand for a new pair of shoes or boots, manipulating that the manufacturer has invented a unique composition that is ideal for this type of material. Based on customer reviews, it became clear that there is nothing special about such sprays; they are no better or worse than other brands, which are also suitable for shoes of any brand.

Top most popular aerosols and impregnations

• Salamander - universal foam is suitable for all types of leather, except for varnish coating, as it is not absorbed.
• Kiwi - Suitable for both leather and suede.
• Stretcher - German impregnation is suitable for natural and artificial leather.
• Tarado - softens and promotes stretching of leather and suede.
• Twist - suitable for leather, suede and even velor.

How to stretch textile shoes?

1. Tear down houseswithout using any secrets . It will take a couple of days, but the fabric will eventually take the shape of your foot.
2. Hairdryer treatment . Put on thick socks, then shoes and apply hot air for about a minute. Do circular movements feet and wear for 5 minutes in normal walking mode.
3. Large peeled potatoes Leave them in your shoes overnight and try them on in the morning. Repeat the procedure if necessary.
4. Groats . Take any cereal that swells, wet it and compact it into your shoes (you can put it in a bag), leave it for 12 hours.

How to quickly break in shoes in other ways?

There are many ways to stretch and adjust shoes to fit your feet. Let's look at the most famous of them.

How to stretch shoes using newspaper?

The newspaper must be wetted and placed tightly in the shoes until completely dry. It doesn’t always work out the first time, you can repeat the procedure or not wait for it to dry completely, and after 5-6 hours put wet shoes on your socks and walk around the house.

How to stretch shoes using alcohol or vodka?

Rub the inner surface of the product with alcohol or vodka, then put your new thing on your sock and walk around the house until it dries completely.

If we are talking about leather, then you can use both alcohol and vodka in their pure form. If you want to stretch artificial material, it is better to dilute the liquid with water 1:2.

How to break in shoes with ice?

When water freezes, it expands and takes up more space, so you can stretch your shoes by placing them with a bag filled with water in the freezer. Remove when the water turns to ice.

You shouldn’t take out the ice packs right away; you need to let them sit for about 15-20 minutes in a warm place and only then take them out.

Stretching shoes in the refrigerator Suitable only for winter shoes and genuine leather products. If you are not confident in the quality of your shoes or sandals, then it is better not to take risks using this method.

How to wear shoes with wet socks?

Breaking in your shoes with wet socks is not a pleasant way, but if there are no other options, then go for it.

• Wet cotton socks.
• Squeeze them thoroughly.
• Put on socks, then shoes.
• You can put a second pair on top of the shoes so that there is simultaneous exposure from both the inside and the outside.
• Walk until dry, at least partially.

Important! After this, the shoes will be damp and cannot be left to dry in the sun or near a heating element. This way you will only achieve the opposite effect.

The main secrets of breaking in tight shoes

• Break in your shoes gradually, 2-3 hours a day.
• It is better to cover areas that may rub in advance with a band-aid.
• The backdrop can be lubricated with alcohol, Vaseline or castor oil. These compounds will make it softer.
• To stretch suede and patent leather, it is better not to use options with hot water, steam and freezing.
• Alcohol for breaking in shoes can replace table vinegar.
• Instead of boiling water, you can use beer, which is no less effective at softening the skin and stretching the shoes.
• After rain, do not place shoes on the radiator. It is better to dry it with a hairdryer (cold air).
• The method with wet socks will work better if you wet them not with cold water, but with hot water.
• Buy shoes after lunch, when your feet are already a little full and tired.

It is not always possible to fully evaluate the comfort of new shoes when trying them on. If, already during wearing, it turns out that the shoes or sneakers are pinching, rubbing, cutting into the skin, and there is no possibility or desire to return them to the store, you can try to stretch the shoes using improvised means.

What shoes can be stretched?

When deciding to stretch the shoes, keep in mind that it is easier to do it in width. If your finger rests on the toe of the shoes, then lengthening them will be problematic, because the seams may suffer and the shoes will become unusable. But you can try to increase the fullness, stretch it in width, and thereby increase the product by a maximum of 1 size using improvised means. The composition of the material is of particular importance. Can be stretched:

Some types of materials are not only difficult to stretch, but can also become deformed and shrink when trying to increase the size of the shoes. Most often problems arise with shoes:

It is believed that the skin is the most pliable. But there are also nuances here - the material may be too thin or inelastic, tear or deform during stretching. Thus, the skin of a kangaroo is much more elastic than that of a bull.

Do not rush to stretch your shoes immediately after purchase. Perhaps you should wear your shoes for a while and they will take on their optimal shape naturally.

How they do it in workshops

Some shoe stores and workshops offer consumers a professional shoe stretching service. As a rule, this method is quite effective, and stretching is performed using professional materials and equipment. Special compounds are applied to the shoes, heated metal pads are inserted inside with the ability to regulate the degree of tension of the material.

When choosing professional stretching, trust workshops with good reviews and high reputation. Usually, financial liability If something goes wrong, the master will not bear responsibility for damaged shoes.

Choosing methods and means

Certain stretching methods are optimal for each type of material. If there is slight pressure from shoes on your feet, it is recommended to put on thick socks, and then shoes, and walk like this for a long period of time. It may be possible to solve the problem in this way without seriously affecting the material, but it obviously won’t bring any pleasure.
If the shoes press hard and cause discomfort when worn even on bare feet, you will have to work hard to give them the desired volume. It is recommended to combine physical and mechanical impact on the shoes to enhance the effect. That is, after using various stretching compounds, it is advisable to put shoes on your feet and actively walk, squat, and run in them.

Genuine leather, suede, nubuck

Natural materials, as a rule, are pliable and elastic, stretch well, especially under thermal and mechanical influence. You can use one or several stretching methods in turn.

Exposure to boiling water

The method may be too aggressive for thin leather and delicate nubuck, but if you are willing to take risks, the results can be very effective.

Instructions for use:

If you are afraid to pour hot water directly into the shoes, you can put plastic bags inside and use hot water, not boiling (not higher than 80 degrees, otherwise the bag will melt).

You can also try to stretch PVC or rubber shoes with boiling water. In this case, boiling water is poured not only inside, but also the hot liquid is poured over the outer surface. Otherwise, the sequence of actions is the same as with natural materials.

Cooling

You can try to stretch the material not only with heat, but also with cold.

Instructions for use:

Exposure to alcohol

This method was especially popular in Soviet times. Modern shoes, sometimes too delicate, and alcohol can cause “smudges” to appear on painted materials. If the leather is quite rough and thick, you can take a risk, but first, rub it with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol and check if the material is stained.

Instructions for use:

Even if the leather is painted with permanent paint, it is not recommended to use alcohol on the outer surfaces of shoes.

Faux leather, varnish

This material is more unpredictable than natural species leather and suede. The composition can contain a wide variety of substances, and their quality varies significantly. In the event of an undesirable outcome, the leatherette will crack or lose its shape. However, there are ways to stretch such shoes with minimal risk of harming their appearance.

Fat cream or Vaseline

Instructions for use:

Instead of cream, people also use Castor oil, liquid soap, paraffin. If you decide to use one of these products, keep in mind that cleaning the inside of your shoes from such liquids can be problematic.

Newspaper stuffing

Perhaps the safest way to stretch shoes is with paper.

Instructions for use:

Groats

The method is especially relevant in cases where it is necessary to stretch the instep in high shoes - shoes or boots. In ancient times it was used by cowboys.

Instructions for use:

Cereals tend to absorb liquid and increase in size, due to which they can stretch the boot somewhat.

Universal methods

There are methods for stretching shoes that can be equally effective on different materials.

Pads

You can repeat the actions of shoe stretching specialists at home by purchasing special lasts. It is also recommended to stock up on a special stretching spray that will help improve the elasticity of the material (such products will be discussed below). The device may also include convex pads that are attached to places that create the greatest pressure on the foot when wearing shoes.

Instructions for use:

Hairdryer

Thermal influence contributes to the expansion of the material structure. Using a hairdryer, you can try to “warm up” the shoes and thus increase their size, accompanying the action with mechanical stretching. However, you should be careful - excessive heat can lead to deformation of the shoes, and when directing a stream of air at the gluing points, it can lead to the divergence of the glued seams.

Instructions for use:

Special chemicals

Progress does not stand still, and today, to solve the problem of tight shoes, you can use special household chemicals, which are called stretchers. Most often they come in the form of a spray or foam. The process of using these tools, as a rule, involves the following actions:

The procedure is carried out in a ventilated area or on outdoors. Stretches are applied immediately before wearing. If necessary, it is permissible to treat shoes with the product several times until the desired result is achieved. Before use, you must study the manufacturer's instructions to determine what materials the stretcher is suitable for. As a rule, all such compositions “work” with the skin. It is also permissible to use them for stretching leatherette, patent leather shoes, suede and nubuck, but manufacturers do not guarantee results. Stretchers soften the material, making it more pliable and elastic, but do not stretch the shoes in length. By supplementing the stretcher effect with physical impact during wear, you can achieve the desired volume of the shoe and a comfortable fit on your foot. After drying, the product fixes the acquired shape of the products. To treat varnish surfaces, suede, nubuck, it is recommended to work on shoes only from the inside.

Let's take a closer look at popular stretchers famous brands, according to estimates on Yandex Market.

Tarrago Shoe Stretch

A product from a Spanish manufacturer that is popular among Russian consumers. Available in aerosol form in 100 ml containers. The stretcher does not have a strong odor and is suitable for all types of leather, including embossed and reptile skin. Contains the following components:

According to consumer reviews, the stretcher is highly effective and allows you to increase the convenience and comfort of shoes when worn. The cost of the aerosol is relatively high - about 350–400 rubles.

Salton

Russian-made products in the form of a spray in 125 ml bottles. Designed for stretching smooth leather, suede, nubuck. When irrigating shoes, it creates airy foam on the surface, which is quickly absorbed into the skin. It contains the following components: Saphir Oke spray is produced in France in bottles of 50 and 150 ml

The product of the French brand is considered one of the most highly effective and expensive. Available in the form of a transparent aerosol in 50 and 150 ml cylinders costing 550–600 and 850–1000 rubles, respectively. The advantage of the stretcher, according to the manufacturer, is a gentle effect on shoes made of any type of leather without the risk of streaks, contours, or disturbances in the structure of the material.

Includes:

Chist

A Turkish-made stretcher in the form of an aerosol in 150 ml containers. Designed for all types of natural leather, suede, nubuck, including those with coatings or embossing. The cost of the product is relatively low - 120–150 rubles per bottle. The oils in the aerosol effectively soften narrow and tight shoes and help them acquire a comfortable shape.

Contains:

Silver Universal

Another Turkish product, but this time in the form of foam, in 150 ml containers. The manufacturer draws attention to the absence of solvents in the composition, which means that the foam does not leave streaks or stains on the surface being treated. The cost of the bottle is affordable - 140–180 rubles.

Mistakes when stretching shoes

When you decide to increase your shoe size, think carefully about which method is right for that particular pair. You should not experiment and test stretching methods intended for leather on products made of varnish or leatherette. So, when the latter are placed in the freezer or when treated with boiling water, they can crack, become deformed and become unusable.

When choosing lasts for stretching, be careful with the degree of tension of the material - the seams may not hold up and you will only be able to increase the size if the integrity of the shoe itself is damaged. Excessive heat exposure can cause the glue to leak, and alcohol exposure can cause the shoes to become mottled. Always test stretching agents on a small area of ​​the surface to detect possible negative effects in time.

Greetings, my dears!

We girls have our weaknesses. One of them may be the desire to be beautiful no matter what. It happens to you that you bought some beautiful dress, for which it’s good to lose a couple of kg, but you can’t give it up and carry have a nice shopping home? Assuring yourself that for his sake you will go on a diet right from tomorrow. Well, well, it’s good if you really lose weight and shine in this outfit, otherwise it often happens that the item remains untouched in the wardrobe.

The same thing happens with shoes. I have a friend whose weakness is shoe addiction. If she sees something interesting in a shoe store, then at least seven of her will not help! He will buy what is needed and what is not needed. And if the coveted shoes are sold at a tempting discount, then everything is clear; she definitely won’t pass them by.

This is typical for many of us, some to a greater extent, some to a lesser extent. And just in such a fervor of buying excitement, it is easy to grab a pair that is “slightly not yours.”

You come home and find that your shoes are rubbing! There is good news! This matter is often quite fixable, unless, of course, you bought 36 for your 39. And just today we’ll discuss, if your shoes are tight, how to stretch them? I’ll tell you all the secrets that I know myself and that my friend shared!

How to break in shoes if they are too tight? There are several methods, let's look at them based on the material.

• We pull the skin.

Genuine leather is perhaps the best material for shoes. Beautiful, soft, easy-to-fit product. And it’s not difficult to stretch such shoes, even at home. You can easily add about half a size. Simply wet your leather shoes and wear them indoors for a while.

Please, just do not soak your shoes or spray them with a spray bottle - this may damage the paint or insole, and the product itself may become damaged.

A good way: take not very thick socks, moisten them with vodka or a 2 to 1 dilution of alcohol. Put on those wet socks and put on your shoes. Walk around the house for several hours. Then dry the pair.

If the result is not very satisfying, then simply repeat the procedure, but with less alcohol, i.e. make a vodka solution.

Attention! Shoes should not be wiped with alcohol on top!

You can also use water, but to achieve the best effect, the temperature of the liquid, which is also used to wet the sock, must be high, i.e. as tolerant as possible. You can even first scald the inside of the product with boiling water. Or blow them from the inside with a hairdryer on hot air. Well, then put on your socks. Be careful and don't get burned!

A good result can be achieved using vinegar. Wipe the inside of the product with a 3% solution and wear for a while. This should help!

• What about suede?

Let us now consider how to deal with suede shoes if she rubs. In general, this material breaks in very well on its own, just walk around for a couple of days and the shoes will fit comfortably on your feet. But if you need to quickly increase their size, then choose the same “vodka” method that is proposed for leather products.

Do not use water for these purposes so that the product does not fade or become covered with stains!

A caveat: when breaking in, take a thin sock, otherwise the suede shoes may become too big and then hang loose on your feet.

If your shoes are too tight, it is best to use a special stretching foam for suede. It is sprayed only inside the product, on those places that rub the most, after which the shoes also need to be worn with socks.

Important: do not use on suede fatty products, because they leave streaks and spoil the material!

• Even varnish will succumb!

This is perhaps the most difficult material to break in. Firstly, such shoes are rigid and difficult to deform in themselves, and secondly, if you overdo it with the products, the varnish may crack. When deciding to purchase such products, choose a pair that is suitable in length and where your fingers are free.

If you still have to stretch new patent leather shoes, then fat comes to the rescue. What you need to do: take castor oil, Vaseline or glycerin, lubricate the shoes both inside and outside and wear them on your toes. The material will soften and the product will be able to stretch.

• Leatherette, fabric and oilcloth - what to do with them?

Frankly speaking, shoes made of such material are almost impossible to break in. The fact is that inexpensive artificial materials simply cannot withstand deformation and burst. Of course, you can try to stretch such shoes with water, but the risk that the color will fade and streaks will remain is too great. It is best to use the “freezing” method, but more on that below.

Perhaps these are the main methods of breaking in, but this is not the entire list. What do you do? Tell us in the comments how else you can increase the size?

Contactless methods

Above, I told you how you can quickly break in your shoes yourself, but there are also methods to stretch your shoes without wearing wet or alcohol-soaked socks.

1. Steaming.

Hold the shoes over the steam, and then put wads of newspaper inside. Lay them as densely and as large as possible, but try not to disturb the shape. Then we leave the shoes to dry in a dry place (but under no circumstances near the radiator!) for about a day.

The disadvantage of this method is that there is a possible risk of streaks. And also, there is a possibility that after some time the product will dry out and begin to shrink even more.

1. Freezing.

Quite unusual, but effective way how to widen shoes. We pour water into plastic bags (preferably with a special clasp) and insert them into the toes of the shoes. We put this pair in the freezer for a day. Freezing, the water will begin to expand and put pressure on the walls of the shoe, thereby stretching it. After the allotted time, we take out the pair, remove the bags and let the shoes “come to their senses” in a dry place.

Partial breaking-in

It often happens that the product fits well in length and is comfortable for the fingers, but the back feels tight. How to deal with it:

• Rub the back of the shoe with paraffin. In just a day you can forget about this problem.
• Knead the back with a hammer. Tap this area very gently until it becomes soft.

Before buying a new pair, you should remember that you cannot take them apart:

• Shoes 2 or more sizes.
• If the shoes are tight in the edging seam.
• Products made from certain artificial materials.

How can a shoe shop help?

There is another way. Almost any shoe shop offers a shoe stretching service. Everything happens simply, you say how much you need to increase, widen your shoes. Then the master looks at the material and its quality, and if everything is real, then he places them on special things. After a day or two, you pick them up and get the size you want.

This method helps some, but not others. I applied for this service a couple of times, but was not satisfied. In the first case, my shoes were overstretched, and in the second, I didn’t feel any changes at all and I still had to use my grandmother’s method of wearing them (with thick socks).

When buying new shoes, it is best to close your eyes and listen to your feelings - whether you are comfortable enough in length, width and instep. The product simply must be comfortable, otherwise it can significantly worsen not only your mood, but also your health.

Wear only the right shoes and don’t forget to share in the comments your ways of how to quickly fit a shoe on your foot!

See you again on my blog,

Anastasia Smolinets